IIT Mandi researchers elucidate molecular structure of Endodomain of spike protein of Covid-19 virus

Using advanced computational algorithms and laboratory techniques, the IIT Mandi researchers have deciphered the structural flexibilities of the C-terminal region.

Researchers from IIT Mandi, using spectroscopy and simulation methods, unraveled the molecular structure of a functional protein region of the Covid-19 virus. The team has established the structure of one section of an important spike protein responsible for the virus's infectivity.

The unique and pioneering observations have recently been published in the journal Virology. The research was led by Dr Rajanish Giri, Associate Professor, School of Basic Sciences, IIT Mandi, and co-authored by his PhD scholars, Prateek Kumar, Taniya Bhardwaj, and Dr Neha Garg, Assistant Professor at Banaras Hindu University.

SARS Coronavirus 2, the cause of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, is so-called because of the spikes on its surface that give it the appearance of a crown (or corona).

The proteins that make up the spikes are responsible for the penetration of these viruses into the host cells of the infected lifeform.

Speaking about his recent work, Dr Rajanish Giri, Associate Professor, School of Basic Sciences, IIT Mandi, said,

"The endodomain is an important part of spike protein as it contains transporting signals that help in movement of protein inside host cells and thus play a crucial role in infection”, added Giri.

Given the importance of the spike protein in the virus’ infectivity, considerable research work is being carried out all over the world on characterising its molecular structure.